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Safety warning notice WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow.
Table of contents 1 Hardware features Identifying the hardware ........................1 Top components ........................1 TouchPad ......................1 Lights ........................2 Buttons ........................ 3 Keys ........................4 Front components ........................ 4 Right-side components ......................5 Left-side components ......................6 Display components ......................7 Bottom components ......................
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Current network security codes are unavailable ..........22 WLAN connection is very weak ................. 23 Cannot connect to the wireless router ............... 23 Connecting to a local area network (LAN) ................. 23 4 Multimedia Multimedia features ..........................25 Identifying your multimedia components ................25 Adjusting the volume ......................
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Passwords set in Windows ....................64 Passwords set in Setup Utility ................... 64 Administrator password ..................65 Managing an administrator password ..........65 Entering an administrator password ..........65 Power-on password ..................65 Managing a power-on password ............66 Entering a power-on password ............66 Using antivirus software ........................
Hardware features Identifying the hardware Components included with the computer may vary by region and model. The illustrations in this chapter identify the standard features on most computer models. To see a list of hardware installed in the computer, follow these steps: Select Start >...
Component Description Left TouchPad button* Functions like the left button on an external mouse. Right TouchPad button* Functions like the right button on an external mouse. TouchPad scroll zone Scrolls up or down. *This table describes factory settings. To view or change pointing device preferences, select Start > Control Panel > Printers and Other Hardware >...
Buttons Component Description ● Power button* When the computer is off, press the button to turn on the computer. ● When the computer is on, press the button briefly to initiate Standby. ● When the computer is in Standby, press the button briefly to exit Standby.
Keys Component Description Displays system information when pressed in combination with the key. Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in combination with a function key. Windows® logo key Displays the Windows Start menu. Windows applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the pointer.
Component Description ● Battery light On: A battery is charging. ● Blinking: A battery that is the only available power source has reached a low battery level. When the battery reaches a critical battery level, the battery light begins blinking rapidly. ●...
Component Description External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector. RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable. Left-side components Component Description Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer. NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being mishandled or stolen.
Display components Component Description Internal display switch Turns off the display if the display is closed while the power is on. Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. Webcam Captures still photographs and videos. NOTE: To capture videos, you must install additional webcam software.
Bottom components Component Description Battery release latches (2) Release the battery from the battery bay. Battery bay Holds the battery. Vents (4) Enable airflow to cool internal components. NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine operation.
Wireless antennas Component Description WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless local area networks (WLANs). WWAN antennas (2) (select models only)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless wide-area networks (WWANs). *The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately around the antennas free from obstructions.
Additional hardware components Component Description Power cord* Connects an AC adapter to an AC outlet. Battery* Powers the computer when the computer is not plugged into external power. AC adapter Converts AC power to DC power. *Batteries and power cords vary in appearance by region and country. Identifying the labels The labels affixed to the computer provide information you may need when you troubleshoot system problems or travel internationally with the computer.
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◦ Model description (4). This is the alphanumeric identifier you use to locate documents, drivers, and support for your computer. ◦ Warranty period (5). This number describes the duration (in years) of the warranty period for this computer. Have this information available when you contact technical support. The service tag label is affixed to the bottom of the computer.
Using HP QuickWeb software (select models only) HP QuickWeb software is an optional, instant-on environment that is separate from the Windows operating system. QuickWeb allows you to rapidly access certain programs without the need to start the operating system. You will enjoy this feature if you browse the Internet, view and send e-mail, view digital photos, listen to music, or keep in touch through instant messages or Skype.
Wireless and local area network Using wireless devices Wireless technology transfers data across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices: ● Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area networks (commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, wireless LANs, or WLANs) in corporate offices, your home, and public places such as airports, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and universities.
Identifying wireless and network status icons Icon Name Description Wireless (connected) Identifies the location of the wireless light and the wireless function key on the computer. Also identifies the Wireless Assistant software on the computer and indicates that one or more of the wireless devices are on.
Using HP Connection Manager software (select models only) Connection Manager allows you to manage your Internet profiles, SMS (Short Message Service) messaging, connection devices and methods, and edit additional settings. To start Connection Manager: Click the HP Connection Manager icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. Click Connect to turn on the wireless wide area network (WWAN) feature and use HP Mobile Broadband.
Using a WLAN With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other devices and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point. NOTE: The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably. ●...
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your network from unauthorized access. The common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)- Personal and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Because wireless radio signals travel outside the network, other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected signals and either connect to your network (uninvited) or capture information being sent across it.
NOTE: If you do not see the network you want to connect to, click Set up a connection or network. A list of options is displayed. You can choose to manually search for and connect to a network or to create a new network connection. After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the wireless network connection icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name, speed, strength, and status of the connection.
For information on inserting and removing the SIM, refer to the “Inserting a SIM” and “Removing a SIM” sections in this chapter. For information on HP Mobile Broadband and how to activate service with a preferred mobile network operator, refer to the HP Mobile Broadband information included with your computer. For additional information, see the HP Web site at http://www.hp.com/go/mobilebroadband (US only).
Removing a SIM To remove a SIM: Shut down the computer. If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the computer on by pressing the power button. Then shut down the computer through the operating system.
Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a personal area network (PAN) of Bluetooth devices. For information on configuring and using Bluetooth devices, refer to the Bluetooth software Help. Bluetooth and Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) HP does not recommend setting up one computer with Bluetooth as a host and using it as a gateway through which other computers may connect to the Internet.
Cannot connect to a preferred network Windows can automatically repair a corrupted WLAN connection: ● If there is a network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, right-click the icon, and then click Repair from the menu. Windows resets your network device and attempts to reconnect to one of the preferred networks.
WLAN connection is very weak If the connection is very weak, or if your computer cannot make a connection to a WLAN, minimize interference from other devices, as follows: ● Move your computer closer to the wireless router or access point. ●...
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Plug the other end of the cable into a network wall jack (2). Chapter 3 Wireless and local area network...
Multimedia Multimedia features Your computer includes multimedia features that allow you to listen to music, watch movies, and view pictures. Your computer may include the following multimedia components: ● Integrated speakers for listening to music ● Integrated microphone for recording your own audio ●...
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Component Description Webcam light On: The webcam is in use. Webcam Captures still photographs and videos. NOTE: To capture videos, you must install additional webcam software. Internal microphone Records sound. Audio-out (headphone) jack/Audio-in Produces sound when connected to optional powered stereo (microphone) jack speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or television audio.
Component Description Volume down hotkey Decreases speaker volume when pressed in combination with the key. Volume up hotkey Increases speaker volume when pressed in combination with key. Adjusting the volume You can adjust the volume using the following controls: ● Computer volume hotkey—A combination of the fn key (1) and either the (2), (3), or...
If the Volume icon is not displayed in the notification area, follow these steps to add it: Select Start > Control Panel > Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices > Sounds and Audio Devices > Volume tab. Select the Place volume icon in the taskbar check box. Click Apply.
Audio Your computer has a variety of audio features that allow you to: ● Play music using your computer speakers and/or connected external speakers. ● Record sound using the internal microphone or an optional external headset microphone. ● Download music from the Internet. ●...
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NOTE: For best results when recording, speak directly into the microphone and record sound in a setting free of background noise. To confirm or change the audio settings on your computer, right-click the Volume icon on the ▲ taskbar, or select Start > Control Panel > Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices > Sounds and Audio Devices.
Video Your computer enables you to use a variety of video features: ● Watch movies ● Play games over the Internet ● Edit pictures and video to create presentations ● Connect external video devices Connecting an external monitor or projector Use a VGA cable (purchased separately) to connect an external display, such as a monitor or projector, to the external monitor port on the computer.
To connect a video or audio device to the HDMI port: Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the computer. Connect the other end of the cable to the video device, according to the device manufacturer’s instructions.
Webcam Your computer includes an integrated webcam, located at the top of the display. The webcam is an input device that allows you to capture still photographs and videos. NOTE: To record videos, you must install additional webcam software. To access the webcam: Select Start >...
Drives and external devices Drives Identifying installed drives Your computer includes a hard drive (with a rotating disc) or a solid state-drive (SSD) with solid-state memory. Because an SSD has no moving parts, it does not generate as much heat as a hard drive. To view the drives installed on the computer, select Start >...
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the device, damage to a drive, or loss of information, observe these precautions: Before you move a computer that is connected to an external hard drive, initiate Standby and allow the screen to clear, or properly disconnect the external hard drive. Before handling a drive, discharge static electricity by touching the unpainted metal surface of the drive.
To run Disk Cleanup: Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup. Follow the on-screen instructions. Replacing the hard drive in the hard drive bay CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system: Shut down the computer before removing the hard drive from the hard drive bay. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in Standby, or in Hibernation.
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Pull the hard drive tab (2) up and lift the hard drive (3) out of the hard drive bay. To install a hard drive: Grasp the hard drive tab (1) and insert the hard drive (2) into the hard drive bay, until the rubber stops slide into place.
Tighten the 2 hard drive cover screws (2). Using external drives Removable external drives expand your options for storing and accessing information. USB drives include the following types: ● 1.44-megabyte diskette drive ● Hard drive module (a hard drive with an adapter attached) ●...
Connecting optional external drives NOTE: For more information about required software and drivers, or to learn which computer port to use, refer to the manufacturer's instructions. To connect an external drive to the computer: CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to the equipment when connecting a powered drive, be sure that the drive is turned off and the AC power cord is unplugged.
External devices Using a USB device Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a hardware interface that can be used to connect an optional external device, such as a USB keyboard, mouse, drive, printer, scanner, or hub. Devices can be connected to the system, an optional docking device, or an optional expansion product.
To remove a USB device: Click the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. NOTE: To display the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon, click the Show hidden icons icon (the arrow at the left of in the notification area.
Insert the card into the Digital Media Slot, and then push in on the card until it is firmly seated. You will hear a sound when the device has been detected, and a menu of options may be displayed. Stopping and removing a digital card CAUTION: To prevent loss of data or an unresponsive system, stop a digital card before removing it.
Memory modules The computer has one memory module slot, which is located inside the hard drive bay. The memory capacity of the computer can be upgraded by replacing the existing memory module. WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock and damage to the equipment, unplug the power cord and remove all batteries before installing a memory module.
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Lift the hard drive cover (2) away from the computer. Remove the existing memory module: Pull away the retention clips (1) on each side of the memory module. The memory module tilts up. CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only.
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Insert a new memory module: CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module, hold the memory module by the edges only. Do not touch the components on the memory module, and do not bend the memory module. Align the notched edge (1) of the memory module with the tab in the memory module slot. With the memory module at a 45-degree angle from the surface of the hard drive bay, press the module (2) into the memory module slot until it is seated.
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Tighten the 2 hard drive cover screws (3). Replace the battery. Turn the computer right-side up, and then reconnect external power and external devices. Turn on the computer. Chapter 6 Memory modules...
Pointing devices and keyboard Setting pointing device preferences To access Mouse Properties, select Start > Control Panel > Printers and Other Hardware > Mouse. Use Mouse Properties in Windows® to customize settings for pointing devices, such as button configuration, click speed, and pointer options. Using pointing devices Using the TouchPad To move the pointer, slide your finger across the TouchPad surface in the direction you want the pointer...
Function Hotkey Initiate Standby. fn+f1 Switch the image. fn+f2 Decrease screen brightness. fn+f3 Increase screen brightness. fn+f4 Initiate QuickLock. fn+f6 Mute or restore speaker sound. fn+f8 Decrease speaker volume. fn+f10 Increase speaker volume. fn+f11 To use a hotkey command on the computer keyboard, follow either of these steps: ●...
When Standby is initiated, your information is stored in memory, the screen is cleared, and power is conserved. While the computer is in Standby, the power light blinks. The computer must be on before you can initiate Standby. NOTE: If a critical battery level occurs while the computer is in Standby, the computer initiates Hibernation and the information stored in memory is saved to the hard drive.
NOTE: Before you can use QuickLock, you must set a Windows user password or a Windows administrator password. For instructions, refer to Help and Support. To use QuickLock, press fn+f6 to display the Log On window and lock the computer. Then follow the instructions on the screen to enter your Windows user password or your Windows administrator password and access the computer.
Power management Setting power options Using power-saving states The computer has two power-saving states enabled at the factory: Standby and Hibernation. When Standby is initiated, the power light blinks and the screen clears. Your work is saved to memory. Exiting Standby is faster than exiting Hibernation. If the computer is in Standby for an extended period or if the battery reaches a critical battery level while in Standby, the computer initiates Hibernation.
Initiating and exiting Hibernation The system is set at the factory to initiate Hibernation after 30 minutes of inactivity when running on battery power or when the battery reaches a critical battery level. NOTE: The system will not initiate Hibernation when running on external power. NOTE: To reduce the risk of information loss, periodically save your work.
Selecting a different power scheme Click the Power Meter icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and then select ▲ a power scheme from the list. – or – Select Start > Control Panel > Performance and Maintenance > Power Options. Select a power scheme from the Power schemes list.
When you connect the computer to external AC power, the following events occur: ● The battery begins to charge. ● If the computer is turned on, the power meter icon in the notification area changes appearance. When you disconnect external AC power, the following events occur: ●...
NOTE: The display brightness is decreased to save battery life when you disconnect AC power. To increase display brightness, use the fn+f4 hotkey or reconnect the AC adapter. You can keep a battery in the computer or in storage, depending on how you work. Keeping the battery in the computer whenever the computer is plugged into AC power charges the battery and also protects your work in case of a power outage.
Align the tabs on the battery with the notches on the computer (1), and then insert the battery into the battery bay. The battery release latches (2) automatically lock the battery into place. To remove the battery: Turn the computer upside down on a flat surface. Slide the battery release latches (1) to release the battery, and then remove the battery (2).
The battery charges whether the computer is off or in use, but it charges faster when the computer is off. Charging may take longer if a battery is new, has been unused for 2 weeks or more, or is much warmer or cooler than room temperature.
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The computer takes the following actions for a critical battery level: ● If Hibernation is enabled and the computer is on or in Standby, the computer initiates Hibernation. ● If Hibernation is disabled and the computer is on or in Standby, the computer remains briefly in Standby, and then shuts down and loses any unsaved information.
Resolving a low battery level CAUTION: To reduce the risk of losing information when the computer reaches a critical battery level and has initiated Hibernation, do not restore power until the power lights turn off. Resolving a low battery level when external power is available Connect one of the following devices: ▲...
To fully charge the battery: Insert the battery into the computer. Connect the computer to an AC adapter, optional power adapter, optional expansion product, or optional docking device, and then plug the adapter or device into external power. The battery light on the computer turns on. Leave the computer plugged into external power until the battery is fully charged.
Step 4: Fully recharge the battery To recharge the battery: Plug the computer into external power and maintain external power until the battery is fully recharged. When the battery is recharged, the battery light on the computer turns off. You can use the computer while the battery is recharging, but the battery will charge faster if the computer is off.
Disposing of a used battery WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or burns, do not disassemble, crush, or puncture; do not short external contacts; do not dispose of in fire or water. Refer to the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices for battery disposal information. Shutting down the computer CAUTION: Unsaved information will be lost when the computer is shut down.
Security Protecting the computer Standard security features provided by the Windows operating system and the non-Windows Setup Utility can protect your personal settings and data from a variety of risks. Follow the procedures in this chapter to use the following features: ●...
You can use the same password for a Setup Utility feature and for a Windows security feature. You can also use the same password for more than one Setup Utility feature. Use the following guidelines when setting a password in Setup Utility: ●...
Password Function ● Power-on password* Protects access to the computer contents. ● After this password is set, it must be entered each time you turn on or restart the computer, or exit Hibernation. CAUTION: If you forget your power-on password, you cannot turn on or restart the computer, or exit Hibernation.
Managing a power-on password To set, change, or delete this password, follow these steps: Open Setup Utility by turning on or restarting the computer, and then pressing while the “F10 = BIOS Setup Options” message is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen. Use the arrow keys to select Security >...
Using antivirus software When you use the computer for e-mail or Internet access, you expose it to computer viruses that can disable the operating system, programs, or utilities or cause them to function abnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair damage they have caused.
Using firewall software When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, unauthorized persons may be able to gain access to the computer, your personal files, and information about you. Use the firewall software preinstalled on the computer to protect your privacy. Firewall features include logging and reporting of network activity, and automatic monitoring of all incoming and outgoing traffic.
Installing critical updates CAUTION: Microsoft sends alerts regarding critical updates. To protect the computer from security breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert. Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the computer was shipped.
10 Software updates Updated versions of the software provided with your computer may be available on the HP Web site. Most software and BIOS updates on the HP Web site are packaged in compressed files called SoftPaqs. Some download packages contain a file named Readme.txt, which contains information regarding installing and troubleshooting the file.
Updating the BIOS To update the BIOS, first determine what BIOS version you currently have and then download and install the new BIOS. Determining the BIOS version To determine whether available BIOS updates contain later BIOS versions than those currently installed on the computer, you need to know the version of the system BIOS currently installed.
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Make a note of the path to the location on your hard drive where the BIOS update is to be downloaded. you must access this path when you are ready to install the update. NOTE: If you connect your computer to a network, consult the network administrator before installing any software updates, especially system BIOS updates.
Updating programs and drivers To download and install software other than a BIOS update, follow these steps: Access the page on the HP Web site that provides software for your computer: Select Start > Help and Support, and then select the software and drivers update. Follow the instructions on the screen to find the software you want to update.
11 Setup Utility Starting Setup Utility Setup Utility is a ROM-based information and customization utility that can be used even when your Windows operating system is not working. The utility reports information about the computer and provides settings for startup, security, and other preferences.
● To select an item, press enter. ● To close a text box or return to the menu display, press esc. ● To display additional navigation and selection information while Setup Utility is open, press f1. Displaying system information The following procedure explains how to display system information in Setup Utility. If Setup Utility is not open, begin at step 1.
Setup Utility menus The menu tables in this section provide an overview of Setup Utility options. NOTE: Some of the Setup Utility menu items listed in this chapter may not be supported by your computer. Main menu Select To do this System information ●...
Select To do this ◦ USB Card Reader ◦ Network adapter NOTE: Only the devices attached to the system appear in the boot order menu. Diagnostics menu Select To do this Primary Hard Disk Self Test Run a comprehensive self-test on the hard drive. Memory Test Run a diagnostic test on the system memory.